The merger comes at a historic moment for Mander Hadley, which is celebrating the 100th anniversary of its formation by Henry Iliffe Mander.

His grandson is senior partner David Mander, who commented: "This is the merger of two highly respected Coventry law firms. The whole idea is to improve the quality and breadth of service to our clients."

He said that the company had a wide client base mainly across the Midlands but would also be keen to look at opportunities to operate further afield, even into Europe and beyond.

Mr Mander said that both companies would benefit from each other's experience and specialist expertise.

The Mander family has long-standing connections with the Law Society and its Warwickshire branch. Both he and his brother Peter are ex-presidents, as were his father Allan and grandfather.